The Cancer Researcher Podcast

Editing as a Scientific Career

Does becoming an editor mean you are leaving research? Can you ever go back to academia? And why should you "follow the cookies"?
Join us as we chat with seasoned professionals who have transitioned from the lab bench to the editorial desks at Molecular Oncology, Nature Reviews and Cell. They share their personal journeys, highlight the skills necessary for this unique career path, and offer advice for researchers considering a shift into scientific publishing.
Access transcripts for all our episodes at magazine.eacr.org/podcast.

Demystifying scientific publishing

In this episode we're joined by editors from Cell, Nature Reviews and Molecular Oncology to discuss the process of scientific publishing: from the steps involved, including the peer review stage, to choosing the best home for your research; from preprints to peer-reviewed journals; from APCs and how to get a discount to the importance of engaging in an open conversation about your research with editors even prior to your paper submission.
Access transcripts for all our episodes at magazine.eacr.org/podcast.

Interview Tips from the Experts

In this episode you'll learn top tips from experts in both academia and industry to help you master your next interview. Discover strategies for overcoming nerves, handling unexpected questions, and making a lasting impression, whether in-person or via Zoom. Learn how to navigate job descriptions, emphasise desirable skills, and leave a positive impression even after a rejection.
This conversation was adapted from a 'Meet the Interviewers' panel at the second edition of the EACR's Early Career Researchers Conference, a much loved virtual conference tailored for early career scientists seeking expert guidance to thrive in all aspects of their research careers.
Access transcripts for all our episodes at magazine.eacr.org/podcast.

Research focus: the role of TRAIL in premetastatic niche formation in breast cancer

When studying TRAIL expression in the tumour stroma, Dr Massimiliano Mazzone and Dr Carla Riera-Domingo made a surprising discovery with great therapeutic potential: this immunoregulator acts as a gatekeeper of the vasculature at the pre-metastatic niche. Listen to this episode to find out what implications this has for the formation of the premetastatic niche and the therapeutic value this novel finding holds.
You can also read the full episode transcript here: magazine.eacr.org/the-role-of-trail-in-premetastatic-niche-formation-in-breast-cancer-episode-11-of-the-cancer-researcher-podcast
This study has been published in Science Advances 9 (12), eadd5028. DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.add5028 and was included in the EACR's Highlights in Cancer Research.

How to Break the Glass Ceiling for Women in Cancer Research

In this episode we continue our exploration of gender diversity in cancer research with Johanna Joyce, Marisol Soengas, and Mireia Crispin Ortuzar. Drawing from the challenges discussed in the previous episode, they discuss practical measures to break the glass ceiling for women in cancer research.
They share insights into the importance of supportive networks, mentorship, and the involvement of both men and women in addressing gender disparities. Join us on this journey through statistics, personal experiences, and practical solutions, as we remain dedicated to breaking barriers and promoting equity in cancer research.
Access transcripts for all our episodes at magazine.eacr.org/podcast.

Is there a glass ceiling for women in cancer research?

In this episode, we engage in a dynamic discussion on gender diversity in cancer research with guests Johanna Joyce, Marisol Soengas, and Mireia Crispin Ortuzar. Exploring challenges faced by women in science, they address the leaky pipeline, postdoc instability, and the importance of fostering inclusive work environments.
Our guests share valuable insights into the need for tailored diversity strategies, supportive networks, and representation at higher career levels in tackling gender disparities. Join us as we navigate through statistics, personal experiences, and practical solutions, working to break barriers and promote equality in cancer research.
Access transcripts for all our episodes at magazine.eacr.org/podcast.

Freeing Scientists to Explore: The Role of Curiosity in Cancer Research

Tune in for a journey through the unexpected. In this episode we unravel the magic of curiosity-driven research in revolutionising cancer breakthroughs.
Join us with our guests Prof. Ruth Palmer (Sweden), Professor Daniel Peeper (Netherlands) and Professor Iwona Lugowska (Poland) as we explore captivating stories, from DNA sequencing to unexpected discoveries in tyrosine phosphorylation. Discover why nurturing curiosity is crucial and how it shapes the future of cancer research and treatment.
Note: Iwona joined us from a windy outside location, so we apologise for the variations in sound quality!
Access transcripts for all our episodes at magazine.eacr.org/podcast.

Make your research count: increasing the impact of your research beyond publication impact factor

What does it really take to move the needle in cancer research? In this episode, we discuss with three experts how to conduct impactful research. We define what constitutes impact and examine how to measure and increase it for your research. We also explore conveying impact in grant applications, and the role of public engagement and patient advocacy.
Access transcripts for all our episodes at magazine.eacr.org/podcast.

Grant Applications: How to Stand out

Join us as we delve deeper into the world of grant applications, continuing the conversation we started in episode 4, 'Let's Talk About Grant Applications'. Our discussion not only unravels the intricacies of the grant writing process but also shines a light on the often-overlooked aspects of the interview stage.
Discover the keys to success as we explore topics such as the significance of presenting groundbreaking ideas, the art of cultivating an outstanding track record (and strategies for building one), and much more. Tune in to unlock the secrets that will empower you to craft compelling grant proposals that truly stand out from the crowd.
Our guests for this episode are Dr. Arianna Baggiolini, a talented early-career principal investigator, Prof. Greg Hannon, an experienced senior researcher, and Dr. Ryan Schoenfeld, the leader of the well-known funding body The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research.
Access transcripts for all our episodes at magazine.eacr.org/podcast.

Building Networks

In this episode we explore the importance of networking in research. Dr. Rege Russness, Professor at the University of Oslo, and Dr. Lisa Hoffmann-Haas, Senior Editor at Nature Cancer, share practical tips on improving your networking skills, with a focus on conference participation. We discuss strategies for both in-person and virtual conferences, and touch on the role of social media. Tune in to discover how networking can boost your career in research.
Access transcripts for all our episodes at magazine.eacr.org/podcast.